November 9, 2020 - Zillions of Different Universes

Atheist Alan Lightman, in his book, The Accidental Universe, argues that our universe, and we in it—are, well, just accidents.

“If there are,” he writes, “zillions of different universes with different properties . . . then some of those universes will allow the emergence of life and some will not. Some of those universes will be dead, lifeless hulks of matter and energy, and some will permit the emergence of cells, plants and animals…even minds.”

Of courses, our present universe is filled with mysteries beyond our grasp, so the idea of “zillions of different universes” is pure speculation; “science fiction” one might even argue.

Whatever the supposed theoretical evidence for all these other universes, the whole idea is, really, an attempt to nullify the obvious design and purpose that shriek out of every nook and cranny of creation. From the delicate balance of forces that hold quarks in place, to the curvature of space-time that spins galaxies across the cosmos, and everything in between, such as life on earth in its astonishing beauty, function and complexity—it all sure appears and functions as if designed but we are assured by thousands of scientists that this obvious appearance and function of design are, really, an illusion.

With all due respect, the apostle Paul warned about those who, having evidence from the creation of God’s existence and power, denied it, anyway. “For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse” (Romans 1:20). I’m not sure what they used to deny Him back then; today, the zillions of universe idea seems to be working just fine, thank you (even though it’s Paul, not I, who said that “men are without excuse”).

Also, even if accepting zillions of universes, might not one humbly ask: Where did these zillions of universes come from?

At times Dr. Lightman seems to doubt his own atheist tradition, writing, “Despite all the richness of the physical world—the majestic architecture of atoms, the rhythm of the tides, the luminescence of the galaxies—nature is missing something even more exquisite and grand: some immortal substance, which lies hidden from view. Such exquisite stuff could not be made from matter, because all matter is slave to the second law of thermodynamics. Perhaps this immortal thing that we wish for exists beyond time and space. Perhaps it is God. Perhaps it is what made the universe.”

Ya think?